Avesh Menon is a dynamic entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience in business innovation, leadership, and sustainability. As the Founder and CEO of Rilox EV, he has revolutionized urban mobility by introducing cutting-edge EV solutions for logistics and last-mile delivery. Here is the excerpt from the discussion:
Rilox EV has positioned itself as a leading EV solution provider in the logistics sector. How has the journey evolved since its inception in 2021?
Rilox EV has positioned itself as a leading EV solution provider in the loSince its inception in 2021, Rilox EV has rapidly evolved into a leading EV solution provider in the logistics sector, driven by innovation, strategic expansion, and a strong commitment to sustainability. Starting with a vision to revolutionize last-mile mobility, the company introduced durable and cost-effective electric vehicles tailored for logistics and urban transportation. Over the years, it has built a robust presence across India, expanding its dealership network to 76 stores and launching flagship models like Bijli and Trio, designed specifically for fleet operators and 3PL providers.
Despite being bootstrapped, Rilox EV has successfully scaled operations by leveraging a three-pronged business model, catering to B2B, B2C, and D2C segments. It has also strengthened its ecosystem through Rilox Transport Services (RTS), offering integrated fleet solutions, and charging infrastructure to enhance operational efficiency. As the demand for EVs continues to grow, Rilox EV remains focused on expanding its product portfolio, increasing its market reach, and exploring new opportunities to further solidify its position as a leader in the electric mobility space.
With India’s EV market rapidly growing, what major challenges do you see in the adoption of electric vehicles, especially in the logistics?
The adoption of electric vehicles in logistics faces key challenges, including high upfront costs, charging infrastructure limitations, and range constraints. Many fleet operators hesitate due to the initial investment and the lack of widespread fast charging networks, especially in remote areas.
Battery performance and lifespan also impact operational efficiency, as logistics requires high mileage and quick turnaround times. Additionally, limited financing options for EVs make large-scale fleet adoption difficult. However, as battery costs decline, charging infrastructure expands, and financing solutions improve, the logistics sector is expected to accelerate EV adoption, driving long-term cost savings and sustainability.
Rilox EV follows a three-pronged approach, catering to B2B, B2C, and D2C segments. How does this diversified business model give Rilox EV an edge in the competitive EV landscape?
Rilox EV’s three-pronged approach— B2B, B2C, and D2C—gives it a competitive edge by ensuring market diversification and adaptability.
- B2B partnerships with logistics providers and fleet operators allow Rilox to integrate EVs into large scale commercial operations, driving consistent demand.
- B2C dealership networks make EVs accessible to individual buyers, expanding market reach.
- D2C sales via digital platforms, f lexible subscription plans, and its 76 dealer showrooms across India provide consumers with multiple touchpoints to access cost-effective mobility solutions.
This multi-channel strategy enhances revenue streams, reduces dependency on a single market segment, and positions Rilox EV as a well-rounded player in the evolving EV ecosystem.
Your company has designed logistics-focused vehicles like ‘Bijli’ and ‘Trio.’ What makes these models stand out, and how do they address the specific needs of fleet operators and delivery businesses?
Rilox EV’s Bijli and Trio are designed to optimize last-mile logistics with a focus on cost-efficiency, load capacity, and operational scalability, making them ideal for fleet operators and delivery businesses.
- Trio is a compact yet powerful three wheeler tailored for 3PL and last-mile deliveries. It offers lower operational and procurement costs, allowing f leet operators to expand affordably. Despite its size, Trio matches the load capacity of larger L5 vehicles, ensuring high efficiency. Its maneuverability in congested urban areas further enhances operational optimization, reducing delivery time and fuel expenses while improving overall unit economics.
- Bijli-1 is built for urban and semi urban logistics, offering high durability, reduced maintenance costs, and reliable performance. Its long battery life and sturdy build make it a preferred choice for businesses looking to minimize running costs while ensuring seamless deliveries.
Both models are designed to maximize fleet productivity, lower expenses, and support sustainable mobility, making them valuable assets for logistics providers aiming to enhance efficiency and profitability.
How does Rilox Transport Services (RTS) enhance operational efficiency for your partners, and what are your future plans for its development?
Rilox Transport Services (RTS) plays a crucial role in optimizing fleet operations by providing seamless last mile delivery solutions, IoT-enabled f leet management, and dedicated support services. By offering financing options, mobile app integration, spare parts availability, and charging infrastructure, RTS ensures minimal downtime and maximized efficiency for logistics partners. This ecosystem driven approach helps fleet operators streamline their operations while reducing costs. Moving forward, Rilox EV plans to expand RTS by enhancing digital capabilities, introducing AI-driven analytics for route optimization, and scaling its service network to support a larger fleet base. The goal is to create a fully integrated logistics ecosystem that boosts efficiency and accelerates EV adoption in commercial transportation.
As a bootstrapped company, Rilox EV has achieved remarkable growth. What strategies have been most effective in scaling the business?
Rilox EV’s growth as a bootstrapped company is driven by strategic market positioning, an ecosystem-driven approach, and a strong distribution network. By catering to B2B, B2C, and D2C segments, the company has diversified revenue streams and built a solid presence in logistics and last mile delivery. Partnerships with fleet operators and SMEs, along with 76 dealer showrooms across India, have strengthened its reach.
Its ecosystem-driven model, Rilox Transport Services (RTS), goes beyond vehicle sales by offering fleet management, financing, and dedicated charging solutions, ensuring seamless integration for customers. Additionally, D2C sales via digital platforms and f lexible subscription plans have attracted urban consumers seeking cost-effective mobility.
Rilox EV’s focus on affordability and innovation, with models like Bijli and Trio, provides fleet operators with a sustainable and cost-efficient alternative. By maintaining financial discipline and operational efficiency, the company has successfully scaled while driving EV adoption in India.
IoT and smart fleet management are becoming crucial in the EV logistics space. How is Rilox EV leveraging technology to optimize fleet performance and reduce operational costs for businesses?
Yes, IoT and smart fleet management are crucial for optimizing EV logistics, especially in last-mile delivery. At Rilox EV, we are actively conducting multiple pilot projects to refine seamless IoT integration and fleet optimization strategies. Our goal is to enhance real-time tracking, predictive maintenance, and energy efficiency.
We are currently in the early stages of scaling this technology, but our focus is on developing a robust, scalable system that not only improves fleet performance but also significantly reduces operational costs for businesses. Additionally, we are exploring predictive models that will enable better route planning, battery health management, and automated diagnostics. While this requires further R&D, our commitment to leveraging IoT will ensure our fleet remains efficient, cost-effective, and future ready.
Sustainability is at the core of Rilox EV’s mission. Beyond reducing carbon emissions, what initiatives is the company taking to promote a greener supply chain in India?
Rilox EV integrates sustainability across its supply chain by prioritizing localized manufacturing, reducing import dependency, and optimizing resource use. It focuses on battery efficiency, exploring swapping infrastructure and eco-friendly disposal methods to minimize waste. Through Rilox Transport Services, it enhances delivery efficiency with data-driven route optimization. By collaborating with logistics partners and SMEs, Rilox EV is driving India’s transition to a cleaner, more efficient transportation network.
Expanding across eight states in a short span is impressive. What are your plans for market expansion, and do you see international opportunities for Rilox EV in the coming years?
Rilox EV is focused on deepening its footprint in India by expanding its dealer network, increasing production capacity, and introducing new models tailored for logistics and urban mobility. As EV adoption grows globally, the company sees opportunities in markets that demand cost-effective and utility-driven solutions. By leveraging its expertise in sustainable mobility and forming strategic partnerships, Rilox EV aims to explore international avenues, adapting its offerings to suit diverse operational needs.
What is your long-term vision for the company?
Rilox EV envisions becoming a dominant player in utility-based electric mobility, revolutionizing logistics and urban transportation with cost-effective and sustainable solutions. The company aims to expand its footprint across India by strengthening its dealership network, enhancing its product portfolio, and investing in advanced technology to improve operational efficiency. By fostering strategic partnerships and developing an integrated EV ecosystem, Rilox EV seeks to bridge infrastructure gaps and accelerate EV adoption. Looking ahead, the company also sees potential opportunities in global markets, where demand for efficient and eco-friendly logistics solutions is rising. Through continuous innovation, adaptability, and a strong commitment to sustainability, Rilox EV strives to shape the future of transportation while driving a cleaner and more connected mobility landscape.
Disclaimer: The views expressed by the author are his own and do not necessarily reflect the views of FMM magazine.
Avesh Menon
Founder and CEO
Rilox EV